Carafate (Sucralfate)

Description

Carafate is an anti-ulcer drug. Its main component is sucralfate. It heals active ulcers in the duodenum.

 

Uses

 

Carafate is used to protect ulcers in the stomach. This medication is not absorbed by the body. It attaches itself to an ulcer and prevents acids and enzymes from aggravating the sore.

 

This medication may prevent ulcers that form due to the use of anti-inflammatory drugs.

 

Contact your physician to learn about the full effects of Carafate.

 

Dosage

 

Always follow the prescription that your doctor has provided. Do not take Carafate in smaller or larger doses than you have been instructed.

 

This medication should be taken orally.

 

The total recommended dosage for an adult is 4g of Carafate a day. This should be taken four times a day in dosages of 1g.

 

This medication should be taken on an empty stomach. Take Carafate at least an hour before eating or two hours after you have finished a meal.

 

If you have been prescribed an antacid, take this medication 30 minutes before or after you have taken Carafate.

 

If you have missed a dose of Carafate, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses together.

 

In the event of an overdose, call the nearest medical emergency services.

 

Side Effects

 

A side effect of this medication may be aluminum toxicity. Lethargy and seizures are some of the symptoms of aluminum toxicity.

 

Common side effects experienced while taking Carafate are:

 

 Changes in bowel movements

 

Less common side effects experienced while taking this medication are:

 

 Discomfort in the back
 Changes in bowel movements
 Faintness
 Difficulties with digestion
 Nausea
 Irritation or inflammation of the skin
 Discomfort in the stomach

 

If you experience any of these side effects, contact your physician immediately.

 

Contraindications

 

 If you are pregnant or have become pregnant and are prescribed Carafate, inform your physician. Tell your doctor before you begin breastfeeding your child.

 

 Do not use Carafate if you have a sucralfate allergy.

 

 Do not take this medication with any tetracycline.

 

 Do not take ketoconazole and hydantoins with this medication.

 

 Inform your physician about any bladder or kidney problems you may be experiencing. This medication may not be suitable for older patients who are suffering from the declining operation of their kidneys.

 

 Tell your doctor if you are suffering from a bowel obstruction or find it difficult to swallow.

 

 Do not take this medication with any drugs that may contain aluminum. There may be a buildup of aluminum in the body. This would have an adverse effect, especially for those with kidney problems.

 

 This medication may decrease the properties of certain hormones and Penicillamine and reduce its effectiveness.

 

 Carafate may produce adverse effects when taken in combination with certain antacids.

 

 Inform your doctor of any medications or herbal supplements that you may have been prescribed. They may have a negative effect when taken with this medication.

 

 This medication may cause drowsiness in some. If you experience a sedative effect with Carafate, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.